Traumatic Tendon Injuries of the Hand and Wrist

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Tendons, muscles and bones work together to give our arms and hands full range of movement. A traumatic injury to a tendon can prevent us from fully extending our wrist or fingers. Tendon injuries such as cuts (lacerations) and severe tendon tears require immediate treatment to prevent permanent damage. Fast, effective care is available at TriHealth Orthopedic & Sports Institute Beacon Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine. Our hand and wrist specialists have extensive experience treating tendon injuries and delivering exceptional outcomes.

Traumatic Tendon Injuries of the Hand and Wrist

Tendons attach muscle to bone. In the forearm, there are several tendons called “flexor tendons” that connect the muscles of the forearm to bones in the fingers. Deep cuts on the fingers, palm or forearm can damage these flexor tendons and surrounding nerve fibers. The tendons can also be stretched too far, causing partial or full tears. In some cases, a tendon can pull completely away from the bone (avulsion fracture).

Traumatic tendon injuries of the hand and wrist causes

Flexor tendon and nerve injuries in the forearm and hand are almost always caused by sudden trauma. Causes include:

• Cuts
• Contact sports
• Severe tendon degeneration

Traumatic tendon injuries of the hand and wrist symptoms

Symptoms of traumatic tendon injuries include:

• Inability to bend finger joints
• Numbness or tingling in fingertips
• Pain when extending the fingers

Traumatic tendon injuries of the hand and wrist treatment

Tendon injury treatment will depend on the severity of the trauma. A tendon that is partially cut or torn may be treated nonsurgically. Full tears will require surgery to stitch the two ends of the tendon back together. Nerve damage can also be repaired surgically. After surgery, you will likely require:

• Splinting
• Physical therapy

Traumatic tendon injuries of the hand and wrist risk factors

Certain risk factors can increase your chances of sustaining tendon or nerve injuries. These include:

• Having an underling condition such as rheumatoid arthritis
• Performing high-risk activities such as rock climbing or wrestling
• Using sharp tools or machinery

Traumatic tendon injuries of the hand and wrist prevention

Below are a few tips for reducing your risk of injury:

• Prevent sports injuries—Avoid high-impact sports that may cause traumatic tendon injuries.
• Take safety precautions—Wear protective gloves if you must handle sharp or heavy tools and machinery.

Make an appointment

If you’ve sustained a traumatic injury such as a forearm tenon laceration, our specialists can help. Get connected with a specialist who can evaluate your condition create a customized treatment plan. Learn more or make an appointment with an orthopedic specialist: Call TriHealth at 513 246 2300 or our orthopedic partner, Beacon Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine, at 513 961 HAND or 513 961 4263.